Many directives and regulations of the Council already existed at the time of our accession. Others opposed in the form in which they were put forward may have been improved in negotiation or negotiated as part of a package of measures, the overall effect of which was advantageous to the United kingdom. Thus it is not possible to identify the number of regulations and directives which may have been resisted prior to adoption. Once a regulation or directive has been adopted it is not the policy of the Government to oppose its implementation.

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many representations he has received from (a) buiness men (b) trade associations, (c) trades unions and (d) the general public against EEC policy, directives or regulations since membership.

I regret that the information is not available. Even if it were practicable to assemble it, the cost would be disproportionate. All representations received are, of course, given due consideration by my Department.